Asia Rugby, the continental association overseeing the sport across Asia, has signed a new Memorandum of Understanding with the Chinese Rugby Football Association (CRFA), the national governing body for rugby in China.

The agreement was formalised during the Emirates Dubai 7s 2025 and confirms that China will host several major Asia Rugby competitions between 2026 and 2027.

Under the arrangement, China will host the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series and the Asia Rugby Emirates Under 18s Boys & Girls Sevens across both years. The MoU sets out operational responsibilities between the two associations, including competition structure, technical regulations, and multi-camera broadcast and medical standards.

CRFA President Mr Wang Yun said: “We are honoured to partner with Asia Rugby through this multi-year agreement. Hosting these major regional competitions in China in 2026 and 2027 reflects our commitment to growing the game and providing high-quality opportunities for athletes across Asia.”

Asia Rugby President Qais Al Dhalai added: “The signing of this MoU with the China Rugby Football Association (CRFA) here at the Emirates Dubai 7s represents a significant milestone for rugby in Asia. China has demonstrated remarkable commitment and ambition, and we are proud to strengthen this strategic partnership.”

The MoU arrives during a period of heightened governance scrutiny. World Rugby recently confirmed that although Asia Rugby will retain its membership, its Council Membership is provisionally suspended until agreed reforms are completed. Member unions have raised concerns over governance and financial issues, as well as the wrongful suspension of the JRFU Chair earlier in 2025.

Asia Rugby will oversee competition structures, match official appointments, financial hosting allowances, branding, marketing and evaluation. CRFA will manage local delivery, promotion, operational compliance and partner coordination.

Access the full article to explore the agreement’s wider implications across the association landscape.